Donald W. Johnson

Born March 8, 1937 in Hancock, a son of William W. and Ino (Ollila) Johnson, Don was raised in Franklin Township until age 5 when the family moved to Deerton. At age 16, having left school, he worked in the woods, drove truck, and did mechanic work for the logging operations. He later returned to school, earning his GED. Don’s early years were full of hard work which instilled in him a strong work ethic that would continue throughout the years and which he would pass on to his children and grandchildren. On June 14, 1958, Don married the former Beatrice A. Campbell in Negaunee and together the couple established a home and raised their family in Marquette. While Bea was home caring for the house and family, Don was employed with Frei Chevrolet as a mechanic for over 20 years, and later as assistant service manager at the Ford Garage in Munising and then as service manager at Hooper Stanaway Ford in Ishpeming. He then worked as an over the road truck driver and mechanic until 1996 when he retired due to ill health. In 1997, Don and Bea moved to Deerton. Don liked keeping busy and his interests centered mainly around the outdoors and nature. He enjoyed being in the woods, hunting, fishing, and working in his garage workshop where he crafted end tables, cradles, tissue holders, and other items for friends and family. He treasured his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and they, in turn, loved to listen to his many stories and lessons, and being the recipients of many gifts from his workshop. Don was a member of the First United Methodist Church, the Old Car Pasty Club, and the West Branch Sportsman’s Club. In his younger days, he was an assistant Boy Scout leader for over 18 years, guiding both his son and grandson through the ranks.

Survivors include his wife, Bea; two daughters, Kristine (Mike) Kantola of Harvey and Arlene Heldt of Redford; his son, Mark Johnson of Marquette; grandchildren, Timothy Oysti, Allison Chadwick, Sarah Oysti, Elizabeth Dionne, Becky Dionne, Ariel Heldt, Darick Heldt, and Mitchell Heldt; great-grandchildren, Hannah, Bryce, Dylan, Rylee, Jayde, and Bella; a sister-in-law, Margaret Strebel of Green Bay, WI; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by a brother, David Johnson; and sisters and brothers-in-law, Delores and Jack Zinski and Deanna and Ted Matthews.

Friends may call at Marquette Hope (formerly First United Methodist Church), 111 E. Ridge Street, on Friday, June 1, beginning at 10:00 am until the time of service at 11:00 am. Rev. Dan Young and Pastor Kevin Taylor will officiate. A reception will follow in the church fellowship hall.

The Swanson-Lundquist Funeral Home is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at swansonlundquistfuneralhome.com